Camp Kawartha Celebrates Opening of New Rotary Health Centre

Following a multi-year fundraising campaign, Camp Kawartha (CK) formally opened its new Rotary Health Centre announced on Saturday. 

(left to right) David Goyette; Jason Huffman, Past Board CK Chair; Myke Healy, CK Board Chair; Liam Churchill, CK Board Director. Photo Courtesy of Camp Kawartha.

(left to right) David Goyette; Jason Huffman, Past Board CK Chair; Myke Healy, CK Board Chair; Liam Churchill, CK Board Director. Photo Courtesy of Camp Kawartha.

Camp Kawartha boasts the building as one of the most environmentally responsible in Canada. The 2,070 square foot building is a straw bale construction that features net-zero utility costs, zero toxins, zero fossil fuel use, zero waste output and a zero-carbon footprint.

Designed by the local firm Straworks, it showcases the use of natural building materials – the majority of them local – as well as elements such as a living roof, energy-efficient radiant heat and super-insulated walls that sequester carbon.   

Named for the Rotary Club of Peterborough, the building represents ongoing cooperation between the Camp and the Club, both of whom are celebrating their centennials this year.

The Club is the primary financial sponsor of the Centre. Building on that sponsorship, a fundraising campaign led in 2020 and 2021 by David Goyette has now raised more than $470,000.  

Wayne Harding, Rotary President recognized those Rotarians who first initiated the development of the Camp as a Club project in 1921.

“We are proud of our long-standing relationship with Camp Kawartha, and we are honoured to have our name associated with this outstanding project,” he said. “This building makes all of us leaders in the drive to reduce carbon emissions and sets Camp Kawartha apart as a trailblazer in environmentally sustainable construction.” 

Photo Courtesy of CK.

Photo Courtesy of CK.

“We are here today to marvel at this extraordinary building. The Board of Directors is thankful to the many individuals, organizations, foundations, and businesses who supported the vision of this exciting and unique project,” said Myke Healy, Camp Kawartha Board Chair. “This building is a testament to human ingenuity and Camp Kawartha’s mission. Not only is it a beautiful and fully functional health centre, it is a building that inspires camp visitors and teaches about the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainability.” 

The Rotary Health Centre will provide educational opportunities for students, builders, architects, and campers to learn about carbon-neutral design, carbon sequestration, alternative energy generation, natural building materials, product life cycles and green-waste management systems. 

Building tour information is available at info@campkawartha.ca.  

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